Wigan to replace Broncos in Capital Challenge

1st November 2013

Wigan Warriors are to take the place of London Broncos in the annual Capital Challenge in January as talks continue to save the embattled Super League club.

The Broncos have yet to announce their plans for 2014 following their exit from the Twickenham Stoop at the end of the 2013 season and have not made any signings so far.

Because they were unable to commit to the annual pre-season friendly with London Skolars, Wigan have stepped into the breach and will take on the Championship One club in the grounds of the Honourable Artillery Company (HAC), in the heart of the City of London on Friday, January 24.

Wigan Rugby Manager Kris Radlinski said: "We are delighted to take part in this exciting challenge match in the capital. Wigan has a huge fan and corporate support in the south and it will great for them to see a Wigan XIII play in build up to the new season.

“The buzz and excitement of the World Cup has captured everyone's imagination and both clubs are confident of a big crowd for this prestigious fixture."

Skolars general manager Howard Kramer said: "When it became evident that our usual Capital Challenge opponents, London Broncos, weren't able to commit to the fixture in 2014 we spoke with Wigan and they have shown a real appetite for supporting rugby league in the south and bringing a strong XIII to play us at the HAC.

"Everyone is aware of Wigan's phenomenal talent pool and we are very excited to have the opportunity to play this fixture, especially at such an iconic sporting venue like the HAC.

"It should be noted that is still our intention to arrange our traditional match with London Broncos in January and we'll make an announcement on this fixture in due course."